A ray of sunlight pierced through the darkness.
Lanling Cheng's eyes fluttered open, but the scent of earth, rich from the night's rain, kept him anchored in a daze. The warmth of the blanket against the cool morning breeze did little to hurry him from sleep. He lingered for several minutes with his eyes closed, the peacefulness of the moment stealing away his will to move.
"Ling'er! Breakfast is ready! You're the opening for today, so don't be late!"
A few knocks on the door were followed by the fading sound of footsteps.
The voice was feminine, strong yet warm—filled with love. She meant it as a warning, but Lanling could hear the unspoken trust in her words. It was his mother.
Lanling's eyes snapped open as his heart leapt in his chest, his breath catching in his throat. His sky-blue eyes, once full of youthful innocence, now gleamed with wisdom and calm—reflecting the clarity of a still lake.
His tense shoulders eased, and he let out a soft, incredulous laugh.
